1 Day Inca Trail to Machupicchu Km 104 | Full day Inca Trail

1 Day Inca Trail to Machupicchu km 104

Embark on a unique adventure that takes you along the famous Inca Trail, one of South America’s most iconic routes, on a one-day journey. The walk begins at km 104 of the Cusco – Machu Picchu railroad, at an altitude of 2100 meters, reaching a maximum of 2,720 meters at the Sun Gate, 10.5 km away and takes 6 hours at a moderate pace. The journey is charming with beautiful panoramic views, full of flora and fauna also allows us to visit 3 wonderful Inca cities Chachabamba, Wiñaywayna and in the afternoon to Machu Picchu when most visitors are on the way down.

This one day tour is perfect for those who want to experience the Inca Trail but are short on time, offering a unique and memorable way to explore Machu Picchu.

Cusco I Ollantaytambo I km 104 I Chachabamba I Wiñayhuayna I Sungate I Machu Picchu I Aguas Calientes I Cusco

Duration of the trip:

1 Day | Full Day

Total Distance

11 Miles /17.50 Km

Physical Level:

Intermediate

Altitude:

2900 m / 2900 ft

Type of Tour:

Trekking Nature & Culture

Group SIze:

02 Min - 08 Max

1 day Inca Trail Full Day

Venture into the heart of Peru’s ancient Inca civilization on our meticulously planned 1-day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu trek. You’ll embark on an unforgettable journey, navigating a path that blends the richness of history with the serenity of nature. You will traverse through the cloud forest, bearing witness to the majestic high-altitude landscapes that our ancestors marveled at. Trekking the same path they once did, you will reach the zenith of the Inca empire, Machu Picchu.

We, along with our expert guides and trustworthy tour operator, will ensure you are properly prepared and informed about altitude sickness for the journey. As we progress along the trail, we shall arrive at the illustrious Sun Gate. It serves as the ultimate halt prior to the grand culmination of the trek: the majestic Machu Picchu.

Make sure to plan months in advance and secure the necessary Inca Trail permits from the Peruvian government. The allure of hiking to Machu Picchu draws trekkers from around the world. After the exhilarating trek, we will retire to Aguas Calientes, wrapping up the day with a quintessential Peruvian experience. Start planning for the unforgettable 1-day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu journey that waits to unfold.

What to expect from 1 Day Inca Trail Trek?

Set out on the Inca Trail 1-Day Tour, and brace yourself for an adventure steeped in history and natural beauty. Your day begins with an exploration of the Sacred Valley, a key part of the Inca Empire. Discover the Inca sites dotted along the trail and immerse yourself in the timeless stories they tell. As you traverse the Short Inca Trail, you’ll witness breathtaking vistas, a testament to the incredible diversity of the Peruvian landscape.

Be prepared for a physically demanding day as the trail undulates with ascents and descents. But rest assured, Inca Trail Tours ensure that your safety is paramount. Our experienced guides will provide you with fascinating insights into the rich cultural heritage of the Inca civilization. Upon reaching the pinnacle of your journey, you will find a reward that undoubtedly justifies the arduous trek.

1 Day Short Inca Trail Overview

TOUR NAME: 1 Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu Km 104 Full Day
100% LOCAL COMPANY: fully licensed Salkantay Trek Tour Operator, Highly Recommended! Check out our reviews on Trip Advisor & Youtube what our Passengers say about us
START POINT: Pick up from Cusco and Sacred Valley Hotel/Airbnb. From 4:30 am to 5:00 am
END POINT: Drop-off in Cusco at Hotel/Airbnb 10:30 pm
DEPARTURE: Daily (Based on Availability). If you are a group of 02, we leave (it doesn’t matter if you have paid as a large group service). We NEVER pass our people to another operator, as most agencies do here in Cusco.
HIKING DISTANCE: 17 km/8 miles
PHYSICAL LEVEL: Level 2. The Inca Trail requires some physical preparation, and we also recommend acclimatizing 2 days before starting the Inca Trail.
MAXIMUM ALTITUDE: 2900 m / 2900 ft
TRANSPORTATION: Private Car/Van/Bus to Ollantaytambo and train to Km 104, as well as train back from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo and Car/Van/Bus back to Cusco.
MEAL: 1 Box Lunch
MACHU PICCHU: Inca Trail permits and a panoramic view of Machu Picchu from an Upper Terrace.

1 Day Short Inca Trail Highlights

Walk the original Inca Trail and reach Machu Picchu by the Sungate
Enjoy panoramic views of the Inca sites of the Inca Trail (Chachabamba, Wiñay Wayna)
Perform a small ritual for the Andean gods and learn about the Inca religion
Enjoy our friendly customer service and experienced guides
Eat delicious Peruvian cuisine (novo-Andean)
Hike through different types of landscapes and scenery, such as cloud forests, highlands, grassy hills, and Andean valleys
Enjoy a panoramic view of Machu Picchu and its surroundings with knowledgeable and experienced guides

Please note:

We can do this hike on any day of your choice, as long as we have a minimum of two hikers. All departures are 100% GUARANTEED once reservations are confirmed
Permit availability is subject to those issued by the Peruvian Ministry of Culture

DAY 1
Cusco – KM 104 (Chachabamba) – Wiñayahuayna – Sungate – Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes – Ollantaytambo – Cusco+

1 day Inca Trail Includes

Private Tourist Transportation for all our Quechua Expeditions groups from Cusco to Ollantaytambo and from Ollantaytambo to your accommodation in Cusco.
EXPEDITIONS TRAIN TICKET ROUND TRIP:
Tourist train in Expeditions Service from Ollantaytambo to Km 104 (starting point of the trek) and from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo.
DOWNHILL BUS TICKET
CONSETTUR bus tickets from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes.
PROFESSIONAL GUIDES:
Professional bilingual guide (English-Spanish) who will accompany you on your tour.
All our guides work only for us. All of them speak fluent English, and in case of more than 8 passengers, your group will have a second guide.
MEALS:
1 box lunch.
Our vegetarian or gluten free menu has no additional cost (please let us know at the time of booking).
EMERGENCY FIRST AID KIT
– First aid kit (our guide will have access to one while accompanying you). All our guides receive annual first aid training.
– Emergency oxygen bottle (our guide will have access to one during the trek on the first day of your tour).
BRIEFING:
– For all our treks, this orientation is one day before at 17:00 in our main office located in Cusco city at Pasaje Pumacchupan 196, Hotel Maria Bonita.

NOT INCLUDED:

Breakfast and Dinner.
Propinas (optional)
Travel and health insurance (bring copies with you, please): Quechuas Expeditions strongly recommends obtaining trip cancellation/interruption insurance to protect your travel investment. Included with your pre-departure package, bring your travel insurance to cover trip cancellation, interruption, lost and delayed luggage, emergency medical evacuation insurance, and emergency medical expenses insurance.

DISCOUNTS (to apply discounts. Please send us an email at info@quechuasexpeditions.com)

UNIVERSITY STUDENT CARD (Students must be below 25 years) : US$30. Please send us a a scanned copy of the student card at the time of booking.
Under 17 years old: US$30 Please send us a copy of passport at the time of booking.
Under 12 years old: US$30 Please send us a copy of passport at the time of booking.
Group of 5 or more: US$20 per person. All you need is to book the trek together at the same time.

UPGRADES:

Huaynapicchu Mountain (Based on Availability): US$90 Based on Availability (Let us at the time of booking)
MachuPicchu Mountain (Based on Availability): US$90 Based on Availability (Let us at the time of booking)
Upgrade to Vistadome Train (First Class Train) (Includes Private Transportation From Ollantaytambo to Cusco) USUS$70
Extra Night in Aguas Calientes US$30 per person (Twin Bed room, 3 Beds room & 4 Beds Room with Private shower & Bathroom)
A night in Cusco at our Quechuas Guesthouse: from US$20 per person / Twin Bed room (Before we do the tour/trek or after the tour/trek)

RENTALS

Goose Down sleeping bag (Mummy style): US$30 for the entire trip
(Black Dimond) Walking Poles Rubber Tips Included: US$20 for the entire trip
Day Pack 20 – 30 liters (Rain cover included): US$15 for the entire trip

ADITIONAL INFO:

BRIEFING for all our treks is a Night before we do the trek at 6:30pm in our office, But if you want us to come to your Hotel let us know in advance.(You will get a chance to meet you guide and as well as to give you your duffel bags)
STORAGE Most Hotels have storage where you can leave the rest of your stuff while you hike to Machupicchu, But if they dont have a place you can leave your stuff in our storage with no extra cost. (Let us know at the time of briefing)

We need at least 02 of you and Leave any day you suit. All Departures 100% Guaranteed If You’re Booked, You are Going !!! To Confirm and Secure the Inca Trail Permits. Send us the filled out booking form as well as a deposit of 30% and you are ready to go…

1 Day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu (Prices for 2026)

Availability (subject to availability): Daily departures All departures are 100% guaranteed. If you have booked, you go, we will not cancel your trip!!!!

How to book?
Send us all your personal information, as well as a first deposit of USD 200.00, and the final balance will be paid once you are in Cusco.

Group Service: Price per person: US$440.00
You will be accompanied in a group formed by people from different countries/nationalities: From 4 people up to 8 people (maximum)

Private service: Price per person: US $540
Recommended for honeymooners, families with children, and groups of friends (minimum two people).

If you are a group of 02, we leave (no matter if you have paid as a group service). We NEVER pass our people on to another operator, as most agencies do here in Cusco.

What you need to bring on 1 day Inca Trail:

Most people automatically assume that the weather is hot in South America, but because of the higher altitude in the Andes, the temperature can feel quite cold, especially at night. We recommend the use of a duffel bag or backpack, whichever is easiest for you to carry. A good size daypack is also essential.

List of things you must bring:

Original Passport (and some copies) If you have changed your passport Bring a couple of copies of the one that you have used to purchase the inca trail permit.
Travel insurance is essential (and some copies)
Airline tickets (and some copies)
US$ cash and Credit or debit card (see personal spending money)
Any entry visas or vaccination certificates required
Camera and Memory cards
Rechargeable batteries and adapters
Reading/writing material
Binoculars
Cover for backpacks
Pocketknife.
Fleece top
Windproof/waterproof jacket
Small towel and swim wear
Shirts/t-shirts
Sun hat
2 pairs of shorts
2 pairs of long trousers *zipp off
1 pair hiking pants/track pants
Hiking boots/ sturdy walking shoes (with ankle protectors)
Knee-length socks (to be used with rubber boots, if provided at the jungle lodge)
Sport hiking sandals
Sun block
Sunglasses
Toiletries (biodegradable)
Watch or alarm clock
Water bottle
Purifying tablets or filter (Micropur recommeded)
Insect Repellent (for mosquitos)25 % of deet at least you can also by in cusco.
Flashlight (head light recommended)
Money belt
Sleeping silk liner (for sleeping bags)
Wool hat, mitts or gloves (preferably waterproof)
Rain poncho, plastic bags for your personal stuff to keep dry
Sleeping bag (it can be hired form us) we have goose down or syntetic sleeping bag
Anti-inflammatory tablets (e.g. Ibuprofen)
Thermal underwear
Personal first-aid kit (should contain lip salve, Aspirin, Band Aids, anti-histamine, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhoea, re-hydration powder, extra prescription drugs you may be taking)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the Short Inca Trail (Full Day) to Machu Picchu:

General Information:

What is the Short Inca Trail (Full Day)? The Short Inca Trail is a one-day trek that takes you through part of the Inca Trail, ending at Machu Picchu. It allows you to explore Inca ruins along the way before reaching the Sun Gate for a stunning view of Machu Picchu.

How long is the Short Inca Trail? The trek is about 12 kilometers (7.5 miles) long, usually taking around 6-7 hours to complete.

What is the difficulty level of the Short Inca Trail? The trek is of moderate difficulty, with some uphill sections and rugged terrain, but it’s shorter and less strenuous than the 4-day classic Inca Trail.

Is the Short Inca Trail suitable for beginners? Yes, it’s suitable for beginners with a moderate level of fitness. It’s a shorter hike compared to the longer Inca Trail treks, making it a good option for those with limited hiking experience.

Do I need a guide for the Short Inca Trail? Yes, a licensed guide is required for the Short Inca Trail due to national park regulations.

Can I hike the Short Inca Trail without any hiking experience? While prior experience is helpful, the Short Inca Trail is accessible for beginners, provided you’re in good health and have basic fitness.

How far in advance should I book the Short Inca Trail? It’s best to book at least 3-6 months in advance, especially during peak season (June to September), as permits are limited.

Is there an age limit for hiking the Short Inca Trail? Generally, the age limit for the Short Inca Trail is 12 to 70 years, although exceptions can be made depending on fitness levels.

Can I hike the Short Inca Trail if I have a knee or back issue? If you have any existing health issues, it’s important to consult a doctor before hiking. The trail involves some uphill sections and stairs, which may be challenging for people with joint problems.

How many people are typically in a group? Groups typically consist of 8-16 people, depending on the operator, although smaller groups can be arranged.

Booking and Costs:

How do I book the Short Inca Trail? You need to book the Short Inca Trail through a licensed tour operator as permits are regulated by the government.

What is the cost of the Short Inca Trail? The price generally ranges from $200 to $400 USD per person, depending on the tour operator and the services included.

What is included in the cost of the Short Inca Trail? The cost typically includes entrance fees, train tickets to and from the trailhead, a licensed guide, meals (lunch), and transportation.

Are there discounts for students or children? Some operators offer discounts for students or children, but it varies. Be sure to check with the tour operator when booking.

What happens if I cancel my booking? Cancellation policies vary, but most operators have strict policies due to the limited availability of permits. You may receive a partial refund depending on the timing of your cancellation.

Health and Safety:

How high is the Short Inca Trail? The highest point of the trail is the Sun Gate (Inti Punku), located at 2,730 meters (8,957 feet) above sea level.

Is altitude sickness a concern on the Short Inca Trail? While the Short Inca Trail’s altitude is not as high as the full Inca Trail, altitude sickness can still affect some people. It’s recommended to spend a couple of days acclimatizing in Cusco or other high-altitude locations before starting the trek.

What should I do if I feel symptoms of altitude sickness? Symptoms include headaches, dizziness, and nausea. If you experience these, notify your guide, who will help you descend to a lower altitude.

How can I prevent altitude sickness? Acclimatize for 2-3 days before your trek, stay hydrated, eat light meals, and avoid alcohol. Some trekkers also take altitude sickness medication (consult your doctor).

Are there medical facilities along the Short Inca Trail? The trail has emergency evacuation procedures in place, and the nearest medical facilities are in Aguas Calientes.

Packing and Preparation:

What should I pack for the Short Inca Trail? Essential items include comfortable hiking boots, layers for warmth, a waterproof jacket, sunscreen, a hat, a small daypack, a camera, and any personal medications.

Do I need a sleeping bag for the Short Inca Trail? No, you won’t need a sleeping bag because the Short Inca Trail is a one-day trek with no overnight camping.

Can I hire a porter to carry my gear? Porters are not typically available for the Short Inca Trail, so you will need to carry your own personal belongings in a small daypack.

What type of footwear is best for the Short Inca Trail? Good-quality, well-broken-in hiking boots with ankle support are recommended due to the rocky and uneven terrain on the trail.

Should I bring my own water or purchase it along the trail? You should bring your own water. There are no facilities along the trail to purchase bottled water, but you can refill your bottle with purified water provided by your guide.

Can I bring a camera or phone on the Short Inca Trail? Yes, you can bring both, but make sure to keep your electronics safe from rain or moisture by using a waterproof bag or case.

What should I wear during the hike? Wear moisture-wicking base layers, a warm fleece or jacket, a rain jacket (in case of rain), comfortable hiking pants, and a sun hat or cap for sun protection.

What should I do with valuables during the trek? It’s recommended to leave valuables such as jewelry or large amounts of money in your hotel or in a safe provided by your tour operator.

Short Inca Trail Full Day Trekking Experience:

What is the itinerary for the Short Inca Trail?

Morning: Take a train to the trailhead at Kilometer 104, then start hiking to Wiñay Wayna.
Afternoon: Hike towards the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) and enjoy your first view of Machu Picchu.
Late Afternoon: Take a guided tour of Machu Picchu, then return to Aguas Calientes by bus and train to Cusco.

How much time will I spend hiking on the Short Inca Trail? On the first day, you’ll spend about 6-7 hours hiking, depending on your pace and how many stops are made along the way.

What will I see on the Short Inca Trail? You’ll pass ancient Inca sites like Wiñay Wayna, enjoy breathtaking views of the Andes, and experience the stunning views of Machu Picchu from the Sun Gate.

Can I climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain? Separate tickets are required to climb either Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, and they are not included in the Short Inca Trail. You can arrange this in advance.

Are there toilets on the trail? There are toilets at the trailhead and at some of the Inca sites like Wiñay Wayna, but they are basic and may not be available along all parts of the trail.

What happens after I finish the Short Inca Trail? After visiting Machu Picchu, you’ll take a bus down to Aguas Calientes and then board the train back to Ollantaytambo, where you’ll return to Cusco.

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